Casualties unknown

1982-07-25: Cessna 175 (N7694M) — Marlin O. Dayton — Sunnyside, WA

Sunnyside, WA, US

On July 25, 1982, a Cessna 175 (registration N7694M) operated by Marlin O. Dayton was involved in an aviation accident near Sunnyside, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot, unable to refuel at Clark County Airport, attempted a return flight to Sunnyside but ran out of fuel. The forced night landing in a grain field caused a collapsed nose gear and the aircraft nosing over.

Accident Details

A pilot arrived at Clark County Airport on a flight from Sunnyside, only to find all fuel facilities closed. Estimating sufficient fuel for the return trip, the pilot departed without refueling. Approximately 12 miles from the Sunnyside Airport, the aircraft experienced fuel exhaustion.

Forced Landing

Although it was dark, the pilot was familiar with the area and selected a grain field for a forced landing. During the landing roll-out, the aircraft crossed a ditch, causing the nose gear to collapse. The aircraft continued for about 100 feet before nosing over.

Damage

The aircraft sustained damage, including a collapsed nose gear and structural damage from nosing over. No injuries were reported in the source.

Probable cause

Fuel exhaustion

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04130. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.